Red Nose Institute: Remembering Our Troops

Founded in 2007, the Red Nose Institute, a non profit corporation designed to put a smile on the faces of our United States deployed military troops overseas. In 2016, a post on the Red Nose Institute's Facebook page announced that Sweet Pea and Pappy had to closed down their website since the funds just weren't forthcoming to continue it. In May of the same year another post was made:

"Hi folks, we finally had to stop sending noses at all-Pappy and I were funding the whole thing and it just became too much. We thank all who encouraged us and supported us in this endeavor. We have so many precious pictures, letters, and thank you notes. Apparently this touched the hearts of a lot of folks and that is what it was about. We wanted to send love and laughter to our military and their families-and we feel we succeeded. Much love and prayers are still sent. May God bless you all! Sweet Pea and Pappy".

So the site's domain registration eventually expired and the site disappeared from the web. In 2018 a new owner of the site decided to keep a historical record of this wonderful idea and reposted an edited version of the site's archived content from 2009 and some outside sources. Kudos to Sweet Pea, Pappy, and everyone else who participated.

The Red Nose Institute

One Smile at a Time...

The Red Nose Institute is a non profit, 501 (c) (3) corporation designed to put a smile on the faces of our troops overseas.

Designed by a clown and with the help of clowns and friends around the world, this program was launched in July 2007. The idea is for folks who care about our military to donate red foam noses. Monetary donations are also accepted and used to purchase even more noses and also to help with mailing costs. The noses are then mailed to U.S. troops deployed anywhere overseas. A letter is enclosed with each package telling that the folks sending them are extremely proud of our military and thankful for what they are doing on our behalf. Servicemen and women are encouraged to share the noses with someone who might need a smile and possibly to share them with the nearby children. There is NO COST to our military or to anyone requesting noses.

We all know that relieving stress is of the utmost importance! If sending red noses to troops can help do this, our job has been accomplished!

If you would like to donate to this cause, please mail red foam noses, or a check to the address above, or use our convenient PayPal Button on the left. If you are a clown, include a picture of yourself and we will send it with the package!

Requests are already coming in from military units who want to be included in this project! If you have the address of a military unit, or someone special whom you would like to participate, please send it to the above e-mail address or to the P. O. Box. Or, if you are deployed and would like to receive noses, contact us! The names & addresses are NEVER passed along!

Our thanks for your participation in helping our troops smile and in supporting this war effort. Our prayers and best wishes to you and to our military! May God Bless!

Sweet Pea & Pappy
The Red Nose Institute

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.

Pappy

Retired Air Force
Former Marine

Sweet Pea

Psychiatric Nurse
Former Air Force Brat

15,000 NOSES

That is how many noses have been sent overseas!

TheRNI just returned from the Pentagon and Andrews AFB! As a member of America Supports You, we were honored with an invitation to attend a concert and an open house/air show. The reception we received was incredible and we thank everyone involved!

We are receiving some great pictures! Thanks to all of you who have given permission to print these!
You make Us happy

REVIEWS

Your web site brought tears to my eyes. Of all the ideas and ways I have seen people show support I think yours is one of the most original, and how true... you just can't help but smile when you see these (pictures) and how thankful I am to you for your ministry. May the Lord bless you and keep our service men and women safe.
Darla
Proud Navy Mom

WOW! That's the only word that comes to my mind right now. This unit has had some difficult times downrange (in Iraq), and the thought that not only are you wanting to do something to brighten their days and help in developing relationships, but that you are ready and willing to act on your offer immediately is overwhelming.
Ruth
US Army

The Red Nose Institute Is a Fabulous Idea!
Ed, Kansas City, MO

I am behind you 150% and will do anything I can to help!
Pam, Des Moines, IA

I LOUDLY applaud and acknowledge your inititative in creating a project that will bring joy to thousands of people!
Elaine "Val N Tine", NY

What a wonderful project you have undertaken for our troops!!!
Mayor Clancey the Clown, Ocilla, GA

I am a Retired U.S. Naval Officer & understand the importance of receiving care packages & humor when overseas away from your family. Good luck with this project and may God bless these efforts!
Bubba, Orange Park, FL

I have been under fire in harm's way & can tell you that the troops love things that are out of the ordinary. It is a great way to relieve stress. If somebody had sent us clown noses while I was in Southeast Asia, I am sure the guys in my outfit would have loved it!
Paul, Albany, NY

Our alley sold noses at a public event to pay for noses-we will be sending you 1000!
The Electric City Clown Alley, Loudonville, NY

THANK YOU for inspiring others to think more about the troops-we plan on holding fundraisers to purchase noses for you!
Sparky, Des Moines, IA

The Red Nose Institute Is a Fabulous Idea!
Ed, Kansas City, MO

I am behind you 150% and will do anything I can to help!
Pam, Des Moines, IA

I LOUDLY applaud and acknowledge your inititative in creating a project that will bring joy to thousands of people!
Elaine "Val N Tine", NY

What a wonderful project you have undertaken for our troops!!!
Mayor Clancey the Clown, Ocilla, GA

Our alley sold noses at a public event to pay for noses-we will be sending you 1000!
The Electric City Clown Alley, Loudonville, NY

THANK YOU for inspiring others to think more about the troops-we plan on holding fundraisers to purchase noses for you!
Sparky, Des Moines, IA

I love what you and The Red Nose Institute are doing! Perhaps, a red nose ought to be given to everyone at birth-as a reminder to enjoy life and not to take themselves too seriously!
Joyce T., Norwich, CT

We completely support your mission and welcome the opportunity to assist in any way we can! Very rewarding! KUDOS for all of your great works!
Pam, Des Moines, IA
Korn Patch Klowns

It is amazing to see how something as simple as that (a red nose) just puts a little smile on their faces, brings out the child inside, and allows them to be silly and play for a few minutes. One (soldier) even serenaded me with a great rendition of "Rudolph"! Thank you for your quick reply and doing what you said you would do. I can now recommend your organization to other units downrange, more smiles to share!
Ruth
US Army

U.S. Soldiers from Bravo Troop, 2nd Platoon, 1-150th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron (ARS), 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team (HBCT), 1st Cavalry Division from Bluefield, W.Va, along with Iraqi Army soldiers conduct humanitarian aid drops of school supplies to local schools in the Qarghuli and Yusifiyah areas, outside Baghdad, Iraq, Oct. 15, 2009. In total, members of the 1-150th were able to distribute over 150 book bags, 250 notebooks, and numerous boxes of crayons, pencils and other school supplies to underprivileged students helping to foster learning and academic achievement. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Edwin L. Wriston/ Released)

More Background On TheRedNoseInstitute.com

Origins and Vision

The Red Nose Institute was established in July 2007 by Sweet Pea, a psychiatric nurse and former Air Force brat, and Pappy, a retired Air Force member and former Marine. Their shared backgrounds in mental health and military service inspired the unique mission: to bring laughter, stress relief, and connection to deployed American troops through the simple act of sending red foam clown noses. The Institute operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, inviting the public, particularly professional clowns, families, and supporters, to participate in the joyful effort.

Founders and Organizational Structure

Sweet Pea and Pappy led the organization for nearly a decade, financing much of the work themselves and collaborating widely. Support came from clown alleys, military mental health professionals, and families nationwide. Leadership at the Institute was never about hierarchy but about maintaining a spirit of generosity, inclusivity, and positive morale. The organization’s mailing operations, donor programs, photo sharing, and review solicitation depended on volunteers and donors with shared values.

Mission, Goals, and Approach

The Red Nose Institute’s primary goal was simple but powerful: “One Smile at a Time.” By mailing free clown noses (with letters and photos) to deployed U.S. service members, Sweet Pea and Pappy sought to relieve stress, uplift spirits, and remind troops of their connections to the home front. Each package included heartfelt notes and sometimes photos from clowns, children, or supporters. Troops were encouraged to share noses with unit members or local children, spreading positivity.

Donations came in the form of noses, money for postage, or photographs. Requests were accepted from any military unit or individual, and names/addresses were kept confidential. The Institute’s founders ensured that all shipments were free for the recipients, representing a pure gift of gratitude.

Menu of Services

Unlike an organization with a literal menu, the Institute’s “offerings” centered around:

Red foam noses sent in cheerful packages.
Accompanying letters and photographs, personalized and positive.
No charge ever to military members or their families.
Opportunities for clowns, civic groups, and businesses to contribute.
Special drives coordinated around holidays, deployments, and morale-raising campaigns.

Impact and Reach

During its peak years, the Red Nose Institute sent over 15,000 noses to U.S. service members stationed overseas. The project flourished at times of heightened deployment and received requests from units across branches—Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Notable events included invitations to Pentagon concerts, open houses at Andrews Air Force Base, and community fundraising efforts that brought hundreds (sometimes thousands) of noses to military families.

The Institute’s efforts extended beyond direct mailings. Clown alleys held public events and sold noses to raise money for mailings, families organized drives, and mental health clinics partnered with the Institute to distribute noses among patients and military support groups. In some cases, shipments included themed extras, like Batman shirts, to amplify the mood and foster camaraderie.

Popularity, Praise, and Testimonials

The project garnered acclaim from a diverse array of supporters. Clown organizations, city officials, military leaders, and military family members all lauded the Institute’s innovative approach.

Retired Naval officers spoke of the psychological lift that care packages and moments of humor provide during extended postings.
Army and Navy family members described how the Institute’s gestures created indelible memories for units facing stressful service.
Civic leaders and performers sent accolades, sometimes collaborating on public fundraising events and media campaigns.
Letters frequently highlighted the outpouring of gratitude, such as one clown alley pledging to send 1,000 noses after a successful fundraiser.

Testimonial Examples:

“Your website brought tears to my eyes. Of all the ideas and ways I have seen people show support I think yours is one of the most original.” – Proud Navy Mom
“WOW! This unit has had some difficult times downrange…not only are you wanting to do something to brighten their days, but you are ready and willing to act on your offer immediately. Overwhelming.” – U.S. Army
“Perhaps a red nose ought to be given to everyone at birth—as a reminder to enjoy life and not to take themselves too seriously!” – Clown supporter

Awards, Honors, and Recognition

Though the Red Nose Institute was not driven by pursuit of commercial awards, its unique contribution earned it prominent invitations and recognition:

Participation in “America Supports You,” an official military initiative, brought invitations to Pentagon and Air Force Base events.
The reception at these military concerts and air shows was described as “incredible,” reflecting appreciation from both officials and the public.
Community and civic organizations held drives to raise hundreds or thousands of noses.
Various media featured the Institute’s story, with coverage in local print, radio, and special military publications.

History and Timeline

2007: The Institute officially launches, beginning with a handful of shipments and social media outreach.
2008–2013: Growth accelerates; thousands of noses sent overseas. The program receives regional media attention and invitations to major events.
2014–2015: The Institute diversifies, adding more personal touches and expanding partnerships with mental health providers.
2016: Funding challenges become insurmountable for Sweet Pea and Pappy, and the project ceases active operation. The founders’ heartfelt farewell message affirms their pride in the Institute’s legacy and gratitude for supporter encouragement.
2018: Historical archiving of the program’s content begins, preserving images, letters, and memories on the revived website.

Press, Media, and Publicity

Coverage of the Red Nose Institute ranged from local profiles to features in clown community magazines, military publications, and civic newsletters. The program’s resonance stemmed from its simplicity and universality; journalists often described it as “the kind of grassroots generosity that transforms communities, one smile at a time.” Photographs, letters, and thank-you notes were shared online and sometimes exhibited at military and civic events.

Audience and Cultural Significance

The Institute’s primary audience was deployed U.S. troops and their families, but its ripple effects included:

Professional clown organizations, who made it a tradition to contribute and volunteer.
Civilian supporters, young and old, inspired to fundraise or mail their own noses.
Mental health professionals and counselors, who cited the emotional power of humor in times of adversity.
Local communities that came together around simple, joyful acts of support.

Culturally, the Institute became known for its “One Smile at a Time” tagline and cheerful packages. The red nose emerged as a symbol of hope, resilience, and human connection—an emblem embraced by military units, family groups, and schoolchildren alike.

Proximity and Location

Originally housed in upstate New York, the organization operated by mail and web, making proximity less relevant. The “reach” was national and international, with packages sent wherever U.S. troops were stationed. Physical presence was most pronounced at events, fundraisers, and musical performances attended by the founders and volunteers.

Review Highlights and Specific Stories

Reviews captured the emotional resonance of the work. Units reported improved morale, laughter in the midst of hardship, and a sense of home. Clown organizations saw deeper meaning in sharing their gifts, and family members felt connected across continents by the symbolic nose. Several military units sent back group photographs, letters, and stories; one memorable campaign involved Batman shirts paired with noses to distract troops from stress and bring added levity.

Menus and Seasonality

The Institute’s “seasonal menus” involved heightened drives during holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Memorial Day, Fourth of July) and times of increased deployment. Each shipment was customized according to timing and need, sometimes including special extras or thematic props.

Known For

Most notably, the Institute became known for:

“One Smile at a Time” motto.
The signature red foam nose, instantly recognizable and deeply meaningful.
Commitment to service without expectation of profit or publicity.
Building partnerships across clown alleys, military groups, schools, and civic organizations.

Social and Cultural Impact

The Red Nose Institute stands as an exemplar of grassroots giving, resilience, and innovative morale support. Its work has inspired other organizations—military, civic, and nonprofit—to integrate humor and creativity into care packages, outreach, and mental health programs. It serves as a reminder that simple acts of kindness, especially delivered in creative form, make a lasting difference during times of hardship.

Transition and Continuing Legacy

As financial pressures and personal constraints ended active shipments, the Institute’s legacy persisted through archived content, continued supporter testimonies, and the symbolic red nose. Sweet Pea and Pappy’s farewell confirmed their belief in the power of laughter, community, and generosity.

For families, service members, clowns, and supporters, the Red Nose Institute remains a beloved story—proof that a single idea, when fueled by good hearts and a simple tool, can become an enduring source of hope.

The Red Nose Institute’s decade of impact included over 15,000 noses shipped, countless moments of joy, wide praise from military and civilian communities, grassroot fundraising efforts, invitations to major military events, memorable stories from the field, and a legacy of kindness. Its comprehensive approach, powered by volunteers and donors, focused on stress relief, camaraderie, and the vital role of humor in humanizing difficult experiences. Though its direct operations have ended, its memory continues to inspire and bring smiles to those who need them most.

TheRedNoseInstitute.com